Universities March for the Respect of Mexico

U.S. president Donald Trump speaks during a news conference in the lobby of Trump Tower in Manhattan, New York City, No available, photo: Reuters/Lucas Jackson

Rector of the Autonomous University of the State of Mexico (UAEM), Jorge Olvera García, said that the university stands in solidarity with the migrants who live in the United States and in rejection of the xenophobic policies that seek to divide the American continent. The university, he said, is in favor of dialogue, cooperation and bravery in the face of intimidating policies.

At the “Mexico Vibra. Citizen’s March for Respect to Mexico,” held in the city of Toluca between UAEM and another 80 academic institutions and civil organizations, Olvera García highlighted the readiness of the academic community to express their solidarity with the most important causes for society.

He pointed out that the UAEM continues to seek cooperation from compatriots in the United States initiatives such as the University Bachelors Distance Learning for Migrants program, which currently provides quality studies to migrants from seven U.S. states.

In calling for society to act firmly in defense of Mexico, under the policies of President Donald Trump, Olvera García recognized the university students, who volunteered to join this civil act, but also organizations such as Migrant Lodging, “Brothers on the Road,” the Council of Chambers and Business Associations of the State of Mexico and civil society organizations.

University dean, Estela Ortiz Romo, stressed the need for university students to respond to dictatorial speeches, as they represent the conscience of society and must take the first step to unity.

The Argentinian poet Pedro Salvador Alé spoke against neofascism and called for a response of culture through the slogan “I do not bring weapons but books,” as an act of protest.